Minister of Defence Demetris Eliades, said he hopes the international community will not allow unpleasant developments to take place in the region.

Eliades was speaking after a meeting with Charge d`Affaires of the US Embassy Andrew James Schofer where the two exchanged views on issues of common interest and Cyprus – US defence relations.

Referring to the developments concerning Cyprus’ plans to look for hydrocarbons in its Exclusive Economic Zone, Eliades thanked the US diplomat for the clear position undertaken by the US towards Cyprus’ plans.

He said the Republic of Cyprus is exercising its sovereign rights in accordance and with full respect towards the Law of the Sea and the relevant UN convention..

Eliades expressed the hope the international community will not allow any unpleasant developments in the region.

The Minister and the US Charge d`Affaires exchanged views on the situation as it develops and reconfirmed the positive climate of cooperation, assuring that the two countries’ relations will continue to strengthen and improve in all sectors.

Recently, senior Turkish government officials have warned that Ankara will not hesitate to deploy warships in the Mediterranean, if the Republic of Cyprus proceeds with the exploitation of its natural resources in its Exclusive Economic Zone.

Houston-based company ‘Noble Energy’ is expected to begin drilling in Cyprus’ EEZ late September. The company has a concession to look for hydrocarbons in an offshore field in Cyprus` EEZ, south of Cyprus, known as Block 12.
Minister of Defence Demetris Eliades departs Friday to Greece, where he will hold a meeting in Athens with his Greek counterpart Panos Beglitis.

This is the first visit of the Cypriot Minister after he assumed his duties at the Ministry of Defence last month.

During their meeting, the two Ministers will discuss issues concerning cooperation in the field of defence, as well as other issues of common interest concerning the two Ministries